Building Quality Assurance Systems

Quality assurance, in its broadest sense, is any professional action taken to prevent problems on quality from occurring. This could also mean creating systems for carrying out tasks that can directly affect the quality of the product. Most manufacturing companies invest on quality assurance, as part of strengthening their product and enhancing its value in the market.

The system of quality assurance does not only apply to products as services, and but also to activities not related to production such as administration. Historically, quality assurance originally began during World War II when ammunitions were tested for defects after they were finished. Nowadays, quality assurance system focuses on catching imperfections before they become a final product.

Principles behind quality assurance include "Fit for purpose" and "Right first time". The former means the product should be appropriate for the projected function while the latter implies that mistakes in manufacturing should better be eradicated. Quality assurance also includes regulations of the quality of untreated materials, components, services related to production, management, and inspection methods.

quality assurance systems are relevant to all kinds of business, whether related to continuous production or services. Although such system does not guarantee the production of quality products, it minimizes the chance of allowing low-quality products, which should not be distributed in the market for public use. In order for a system to be implemented, three general steps are often carried out. The first step is to develop the system, followed by documentation which may take in the form of policies and procedures, then the information, instruction, and staff training to adapt to it.

quality assurance systems when successfully implemented can reduce the number of errors, wasted time and materials associated with errors, customer complaints and time spent on day-to-day instructions. On the other hand, these contribute to the improvement of processes and systems. Those companies with quality assurance systems should always be prepared to invest time in complying with required standards. After implementation, a third-party evaluator may look into the company's quality assurance system to ensure it complies with ISO 9000.

quality assurance systems may include services which can be provided by a lot companies. Not only do these companies offer certification, but they also root cause analysis and do other quality improvement processes. In looking for quality assurance system provider for your company, choose the one with the expertise in the quality arena and has a history of satisfied clients.